As far back as I can remember, I’ve struggled with being critical of others. It’s usually one of those things I know is wrong and feel great remorse afterward. One instance involved a Reader at church. No matter how well she read, I would often keep track of what she did wrong. This contributed to an uncomfortable relationship. It got so uncomfortable that I finally realized it was to time to pray.
I gratefully began discovering our mutual oneness with God and truly appreciated the innovation and loving care she expressed in her reading. A genuine Christly love for her freed me from judging. The criticism ceased and was soon forgotten. Tears came to my eyes one day after church when she came to me, put her arms around me, and said how grateful she was for a healing. She had been healed of envy of me! I just walked away with gratitude to a loving Father-Mother God for this healing.
Then there was another woman whom I would see occasionally, and I again began to indulge in self-righteous criticism. One day I realized not only was this loathsome but I was allowing it to interfere with my love for Church. Jesus was so clear in his instruction that we “judge not” (Matthew 7:1). My prayers had included praying to understand how criticism has no place in the Christ-healing that is the foundation of our Church.
